Which Growth Chart Should I Use?
With so many growth chart standards available, it can be confusing to know which one is right for your child. Use this guide to find the best match based on your child’s age, health conditions, and where you live.
Find Your Chart by Age
Under 2 years
United States
WHO charts are what most US pediatricians use for babies under 2, following American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) guidelines. CDC charts are also available if your doctor prefers them.
International
WHO growth standards are the international default for children under 2.
WHO (0-24 Months) Charts →2 to 5 years
5 to 19 years
International
WHO provides growth references for children ages 5-19 worldwide.
WHO (5-19 Years) Charts →Not Sure?
The WHO recommends their charts for all children worldwide under 2 years of age. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and CDC also recommend using WHO charts for children 0-24 months, even in the United States. After age 2, US pediatricians typically transition to CDC growth charts. When in doubt, ask your pediatrician which charts they use.
Special Cases
Premature baby (born before 37 weeks)?
Use Preterm / Olsen charts, designed specifically for premature infants based on gestational age.
Preterm / Olsen Charts →Child with Down syndrome?
Use Down Syndrome / Zemel charts, which reflect the unique growth patterns of children with Down syndrome.
Down Syndrome / Zemel Charts →Using Chinese growth standards?
Use Chinese National charts, based on national survey data from China.
Chinese National Charts →Other Tools
Height Predictor (Khamis-Roche) — Predict your child’s adult height based on current measurements and parent heights.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between WHO and CDC growth charts?
WHO charts describe how children should grow under optimal conditions. CDC charts describe how US children actually grew, based on national survey data. For children under 2, WHO charts are preferred because they are based on breastfed infants as the standard.
Which growth chart do US pediatricians use?
Most US pediatricians use WHO charts for children 0-24 months, then switch to CDC charts after age 2, following AAP guidelines.
What are growth percentiles?
A percentile shows where your child falls compared to other children of the same age and sex. For example, the 50th percentile means your child is at the median — half of children weigh more and half weigh less. Being above or below the 50th percentile is usually normal.
When should I be concerned about my child’s growth?
Talk to your pediatrician if your child’s percentile changes dramatically (crossing two or more percentile lines), or if they consistently fall below the 3rd or above the 97th percentile. A single measurement is less important than the trend over time.
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